how many colleges should I apply to

How many colleges should I apply to?

Asking “how many colleges should I apply to?” is one of the first steps in your college application journey. With the number of colleges in the US reaching over 5,000, choosing the right number to apply to can be overwhelming.

Having a robust college list can be tempting. However, a college list with too many schools can cause stress, take up a lot of time, and lead to financial strain. On the contrary, a college list with too few schools can cause you to miss out on great opportunities. Therefore, finding the right answer to “how many colleges should I apply to?” and knowing how to choose a college is crucial. Here’s a hint to start: it’s all about finding that sweet spot of enough schools that fit your goals and interests without going overboard.

In this article, we’ll tell you how to answer “how many colleges should I apply to?” We’ll also help you start building the best list of colleges based on your academic profile and needs.

We will cover the following topics:

  • Different Types of Schools: We’ll explore different types of schools—Target, Likely, and Reach schools—and help you answer the question, “how many colleges should I apply to for each type of school?”
  • Common Questions & Misconceptions: We’ll address common questions, such as “what college is right for me?” We will also discuss whether it’s better to apply to more in-state schools than out-of-state schools. We’ll even cover how applying to Ivy League schools or aiming for early admission impacts the number of applications you should submit.
  • General Tips for Undecided Majors: Are you unsure about your intended major in college? We’ll share tips to answer “what college should I apply to?” based on other important factors.

When you are done reading this article, you’ll be able to answer “how many colleges should I apply to?” easily! You’ll also begin to answer the question “what college is right for me?” From there, you will be ready to develop your most effective list of colleges.

How Many College Applications are Enough?

When tackling the question of “how many colleges should I apply to?”, numbers aren’t everything. It’s less about the sheer number of applications you submit than the fit of each school and the quality of your application. A well-curated college list including reach schools, safety schools, and target universities will help you have a smooth admissions season.

While every student’s situation is different, we generally recommend applying to six to ten schools. This is a blanket figure, not accounting for Coalition vs. Common App colleges or early decision and action options. We will take a closer look later in the article about why we chose that number and how to find the best number for you.

When asking “what college is right for me?”, taking a thoughtful approach will help you make the best decisions for your future. Remember that the number of colleges in the US is vast, but choosing the right fit for you is possible if you know what you want and how to choose a college.

Applying with the Common App

how many colleges should I apply to

The Common Application is a centralized college application platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges with one application. While the number of colleges in the US is over 5,000, more than 1,000 use the Common App. These colleges are commonly referred to as the Common App colleges. 

One of the biggest benefits of the Common App is that it streamlines the application process. A student can add up to twenty Common App colleges to their profile. Through the portal, they can add personal, academic, and extracurricular information required by every school on their list of colleges. In this way, students applying to Common App colleges don’t have to enter the same information over and over again.

Beyond submitting applications to one’s chosen Common App colleges, the Common App also helps you keep track of required materials. Transcripts, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, and other requirements for all your Common App colleges stay in one place. This can be especially helpful as you manage the application process for multiple Common App colleges. 

While the Common App is beneficial, it’s important to note that not all schools accept it. Some schools, like MIT, Georgetown, and the University of California system, have their own applications. So, while the Common App can simplify the process for many schools, you may need separate applications for non-Common App colleges. 

Exploring Target, Likely, and Reach Schools

When building your college list, creating a balanced mix of schools is essential to maximize your chances of admission. To achieve this balance, you should include three types of schools on your list: target, likely, and reach schools.

3 Types of Schools For Your College List

how many colleges should I apply to

Target

A target university is one where your academic profile — grades, test scores, and extracurriculars — aligns well with the school’s average admitted student. A target university will most likely have average college acceptance rates.

Likely

Likely schools (or safety schools) are schools where you’re well above the average applicant, giving you a very high chance of admission. Safety schools typically have higher college acceptance rates.

Reach

A reach school is one where your academic profile may be slightly below the average for admitted students. Admission is less likely, but still possible. Reach schools typically have low college acceptance rates.

Many school admissions offices will post admitted student profiles on their website. Profiles typically outline the average GPA, test scores, and other information of their incoming class. Knowing how you stack up against these student profiles is an important step to answering “what college is right for me?”

What is a Target University and how many should I apply to?

A target university is a school where your academic profile aligns closely with the average admitted student. In other words, you have a strong chance of acceptance because your qualifications match what the school typically looks for in applicants. These schools offer a good balance of being challenging yet achievable.

Of course, all the other advice about choosing the right college for you still applies! If you know what you want to study, your target schools should have programs that meet your needs. They should also have resources like career services, extracurricular activities, research opportunities, and financial aid that fit your criteria.

When building your college list, three to five target schools is a great idea. This way, you’ll have a solid range of options that match your qualifications while leaving room for the other categories.

How many ‘Likely Schools’ do I need?

Likely schools, sometimes called safety schools, are schools where your academic qualifications are well above the average admitted student. This means you are very likely to be accepted, making these schools a crucial part of your college list. Unlike a reach school, safety schools act as a safety net, providing reliable options in case your applications to other schools don’t work out as planned.

It’s a good idea to apply to one to three safety schools, ensuring that you have solid options to fall back on. Your list of safety schools should include an in-state public option, which tends to offer more affordable tuition and better financial aid packages.

While safety schools are safe bets, it’s important to remember that they should still be places you’d be happy to attend. Even though safety schools might be easier to get into, they should still offer programs, environments, and opportunities that match your interests and goals. 

How many ‘Reach Schools’ should I apply to?

how many colleges should I apply to

A reach school is a college where your academic profile is at or slightly below the average of admitted students. Naturally, the admissions pool will be more competitive for you. A reach school is often considered a “long shot,” but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply. Applying to at least one reach school is an excellent opportunity to push your limits. Even if a school is selective, if it meets your needs and will set you up for success, it’s worth applying.

We recommend putting two to four reach schools on your college list. Your reach school applications should reflect your genuine interest and excitement about attending. Rather than solely focusing on a school’s reputation, choose reach schools based on what you truly want in a college experience. That could be academic offerings, campus culture, or extracurricular opportunities — what do you want out of college? Submitting authentic and thoughtful applications to your reach schools will strengthen your chances, even in a competitive admissions process.

How Many Colleges Should I Apply to: FAQs

After learning the differences between a target university, reach school, and safety schools, you might better understand the question “how many colleges should I apply to?” As you narrow down your college list, having more specific questions about approaching different types of schools is natural. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we can explore some important factors to help guide your decisions.

In the following sections, we’ll dive into some common questions students have when figuring out how many colleges to apply to.

Common Student Questions

  • How many colleges should I apply to in-state vs. out-of-state?
  • How many colleges should I apply to if I’m interested in the prestigious Ivy League schools?
  • How many colleges should I apply to if I want to apply early?
  • How many colleges should I apply to when I’m undecided?

To wrap things up, we’ll provide five tips for building your college list to help ensure you’re applying to the right schools. Let’s get into it!

How many colleges should I apply to in-state vs. out-of-state?

One of the most common questions for students is: how many colleges should I apply to in-state vs. out-of-state? Well, there are a variety of advantages and disadvantages when applying to in-state or out-of-state schools. You should be aware of them when building your college list. Here are some things to consider when deciding how many colleges to apply to and your balance of in-state or out-of-state options.

In-State Schools

how many colleges should I apply to

Advantages:

  • Affordability: Public university tuition is lower for in-state students. This can result in less student debt and fewer financial concerns, especially when combined with scholarships. Including in-state options on your college list can help ease financial stress.
  • Scholarship Opportunities: Many in-state schools offer scholarships specifically for residents which can help reduce costs even further. Be sure to research opportunities from universities and outside organizations when building your college list.
  • Higher Chances of Acceptance: For some state schools, in-state students are given priority in the admissions process. This can increase your chances of being accepted and make your college list even more achievable.

Disadvantages:

  • Fewer “New” Experiences: Staying in-state, especially if you’re close to home, might limit exposure to new cultures or living environments. Consider adding a few out-of-state options to your college list for diversity and variety.

Out-of-State Schools

how many colleges should I apply to

Advantages:

  • Diversity and Academic Opportunities: Out-state schools may offer different academic programs, faculty expertise, or extracurricular opportunities not available at in-state schools. Plus, a new environment can expose you to a more diverse student body and new perspectives, so add these options to your college list.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher Tuition: One of the biggest drawbacks of out-of-state schools is the significantly higher tuition. Without the in-state discount, the cost can be much steeper, which might create financial strain. 
  • Limited Access to Financial Aid: Out-of-state students may also find that scholarships and financial aid packages are more limited, especially at public universities. If considering out-of-state schools, check the financial aid offerings when evaluating your college list. 

Note on Private Schools:

Regardless of your state of residence, private schools have the same tuition rates for all students. This can make private schools appealing to students looking for a specific program or campus culture. However, it’s essential to know that financial aid is still a key factor when adding private schools to your list of colleges.

Recommendations:

If you’re set on going out-of-state, applying to at least one in-state school that excites you is still a good idea. This decision provides a backup plan in case the out-of-state schools don’t work out on the admissions or financial fronts. It also adds balance to your college list.

If finances are a major concern, especially for out-of-state schools, consider applying only to schools with strong financial aid programs. Look into schools with a reputation for providing significant need-based financial support, and be sure to include these schools on your college list. By carefully considering these factors, you can build a list of colleges that are both great fits and financially feasible.

How many colleges should I apply to if I’m interested in Ivy League Schools?

Another common question from students is “how many colleges should I apply to if I’m interested in Ivy League Schools?” Well, the short answer is not many, and here’s why.

The Ivy League schools are among the most prestigious and highly selective schools in the United States. With an acceptance rate of just a few percent at many of these institutions, gaining admission is competitive. Considering how many Ivy League schools you add to your list of colleges is important.

While it may be tempting to focus solely on applying to Ivy League schools, remember that applying to all of them is unrealistic. Remember, Ivy League schools should be treated as a reach school for everyone. Even with stellar grades or high test scores, Ivy League admissions are highly unpredictable and competitive. Consider selecting one to three Ivy League schools you are most excited about and would love to attend. Focus on making your applications for these schools as strong and authentic as possible. 

Lastly, you should apply to other schools, including target and safety schools. A diverse list of colleges will help you navigate the admissions process with peace of mind and open up more opportunities for success. 

How many colleges should I apply to if I want to maximize my chances for early admission?

how many colleges should I apply to

Beyond considering location and college acceptance rates, another common question is “how many colleges should I apply to if I want to maximize my chances for early admission?” First, what exactly is early admission? Early admission refers to applying to a college earlier than the regular application deadline, with two main options: Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED).

Early Action (EA)

This option allows students to apply early and receive their decision early (usually by December). The key benefit of EA is that it is non-binding, meaning students can apply to other schools and choose among all their options once all decisions are in.

Early Decision (ED)

On the other hand the Early Decision application option is a binding commitment. If accepted to a school through ED, you must attend that school and withdraw all other applications.

The benefits of applying early can include higher odds of admission: some schools admit a large portion of their class from early applicants. Plus, knowing your acceptance status early can reduce stress. However, the downside is that you’re committing to a school before you’ve seen all your options. Moreover, acceptance is binding for ED — meaning if you’re accepted, you must attend that school.

If you want to apply ED or restrictive EA, you can only apply to one school early. Breaking this rule or turning down an acceptance can void other admission offers you get later on. Make sure you’re certain about your top choice before committing to a specific college on your college list.

For students applying early, staying organized is crucial. Have a solid backup plan if you’re applying ED or restrictive EA. Let’s suppose you’re waitlisted or denied in December; you’ll want to be well-prepared and have your other college list options lined up for Regular Decision (RD) deadlines in January. A solid and diverse list of colleges can help you confidently navigate the admissions process.

How many colleges should I apply to when I’m not sure what I want?

You may be asking, “what kind of college do I want to attend?” more than, “how many colleges should I apply to?” That’s okay. First, we want to assure you that it’s normal for students to feel uncertain about their college preferences. If you’re unsure about what to study, we recommend following the standard advice. Your list of colleges should comprise six to ten schools that mix reach, target, and safety schools. A well-rounded college list ensures that you have a variety of schools to choose from, regardless of your major.

For those who aren’t sure what to study yet, ask instead, “What college is right for me?” Think about campus culture, location, size, and the overall college experience — what sounds appealing to you? While choosing a school based on academic needs is essential, atmosphere can spur growth and self-discovery as a student. Keep exploring options and allow your list of colleges to evolve as you learn more about what you want from college.

5 Tips for building your college list

Building your college list is a big step in the admissions process, and it’s crucial to approach it thoughtfully. Here are five tips to help you create a list of colleges that work for you:

5 Tips for your College List

how many colleges should I apply to

1. Know your academic strengths and preferences.

Take an honest look at your grades, test scores, and academic challenges you enjoy. If you’re undecided on a major, focus on schools with a broad range of strong programs. 

2. Consider location and campus life.

Consider whether you prefer a large city, a small town, or something in between. Do you want a campus that’s close to home or far away? Also, explore the types of extracurriculars, campus culture, and social scenes each college offers. 

3. Research financial aid chances.

Financial aid can play a huge role in deciding what school is within reach. Research the types of financial aid each school offers. Some schools might be more generous with scholarships or have more opportunities for need-based assistance. Make sure to factor this into your college list.

4. Balance ambition and practicality.

While it’s great to dream big, include realistic schools regarding acceptance chances and financial feasibility. A balanced college list comprises at least one reach school, along with target schools and safety schools.

5. Don’t be afraid to drop schools — or take a chance on a school you love.

Your college list isn’t set in stone. Add and remove Common App colleges whenever you want. As you research, you may realize that some schools aren’t the right fit for you, and that’s okay! Likewise, don’t be afraid to take a chance on a school you love, even if it doesn’t fit every criterion. Sometimes, unexpected gems make for the best college experiences. 

How Many Colleges Should I Apply To?- Takeaways

To wrap up, here are the main takeaways from answering the question “How many colleges should I apply to?”:

Key Takeaways

Quality over quantity

The number of colleges in the US is over 5,000, with colleges of every shape and size. With the vast array of schools, it’s essential to remember that admissions season isn’t about applying to as many schools as possible. It’s about ensuring your applications are strong and well-suited for the schools on your college list. Aim for a balanced mix of safety, target, and at least one reach school to maximize your chances.

Know yourself

When deciding how to choose a college and what will go on your list, look at the big picture. Consider your academic strengths, campus culture preferences, and financial aid needs. Tailoring your college list to these factors will help you find the right fit.

Balance ambition and practicality

While it’s exciting to dream big, ensure that you include a range of challenging and achievable schools. A practical college list will help you stay realistic and flexible in your decision-making.

Take chances

Don’t be afraid to apply to schools you love, even if they feel like a stretch. Add a reach school to your list of colleges. Sometimes, the best fit might not be on your radar, so include a few schools that excite you, even if they’re reach schools.

Are you still asking, “What college should I apply to, and how many colleges should I apply to?” Well, you don’t have to answer these questions alone. CollegeAdvisor can help you research schools, refine your list of colleges, and apply to your top-choice schools. With expert support, you can make the most of your college applications and step into the admissions season with confidence.

how many colleges should I apply to

This article was written by Ashley Hollins. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.